Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has strongly denied claims that Maldivian fish company MIFCO has been blacklisted by the United Kingdom or the European Union.

The minister’s remarks came in response to a report by "Theyra Online", a news outlet operated under Channel 13, which alleged that MIFCO had been blacklisted and banned following a failed audit. The report, however, did not provide any official confirmation.

Taking to social media platform X, Minister Shiyam said the claims are false. He added that neither UK nor the EU has blacklisted MIFCO.

He also revealed that a major British business delegation is expected to visit the Maldives next week to explore potential partnerships with MIFCO, indicating continued international interest in the country's fisheries sector.

Highlighting the importance of the industry, Shiyam said it is irresponsible for the media to spread false claims regarding the industry.

MIFCO is one of the Maldives’ key state-owned enterprises, playing a crucial role in the processing and export of tuna and other fish products.